Harper's (Me, Too!
) entertaining story is less about starting school and more about some amazing animal attributes. The effervescent Miss Mingo—a flamingo—asks her feathered, furry and multi-legged pupils to share something special about themselves, resulting in a hilarious roll-call that enumerates this menagerie's quirky traits. Miss Mingo begins by sipping a shrimp shake upside down. "I'll bet you didn't know that the food I eat keeps me in the pink," she explains. As the day proceeds, each animal takes a turn. 'I taste
with my suckers,' Octopus said with a slurp... 'I hear
with my legs,' said Cricket, frowning at Octopus. 'Could you please eat more quietly?' " Captions in smaller typeface elaborate on each animal's featured characteristic. Colorful, animated scenes invite readers to linger over the characters' droll expressions and actions, such as a wordless spread of the impromptu pool party that takes place in Pelican's pouch. The funny commentary from these stereotypic class personalities (e.g., a nerdy frog and an alligator who serves as the class goody-goody) keeps the narrative moving and the facts coming. Young animal enthusiasts won't soon forget these unique students or Miss Mingo's enthusiastic celebration of their diversity. Ages 4-7. (Aug.)
